Business Briefs: Jan. 24, 2025

GEOFFREY BAKER

GEOFFREY BAKER

COURTNEY HUXLEY

COURTNEY HUXLEY

PV Squared, a Greenfield-based, worker-owned solar energy cooperative, recently celebrated the activation of solar panels at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts’ new warehouse and resource, education and advocacy center at 25 Carew St. in Chicopee.

PV Squared, a Greenfield-based, worker-owned solar energy cooperative, recently celebrated the activation of solar panels at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts’ new warehouse and resource, education and advocacy center at 25 Carew St. in Chicopee. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/PV SQUARED

PV Squared, a Greenfield-based, worker-owned solar energy cooperative, recently celebrated the activation of solar panels at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts’ new warehouse and resource, education and advocacy center at 25 Carew St. in Chicopee.

PV Squared, a Greenfield-based, worker-owned solar energy cooperative, recently celebrated the activation of solar panels at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts’ new warehouse and resource, education and advocacy center at 25 Carew St. in Chicopee. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO/PV SQUARED

Published: 01-23-2025 9:30 AM

Modified: 01-23-2025 12:32 PM


Huxley promoted at Greenfield Cooperative Bank

GREENFIELD — Courtney Huxley has been promoted to business development officer at Greenfield Cooperative Bank.

In this role, Huxley will be responsible for driving business growth by fostering new customer relationships, supporting marketing strategies and implementing initiatives to attract customers to the bank. She will also be a strong presence at the bank’s community giving and outreach programs.

“Courtney has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of our customers, a passion for building relationships and a strong work ethic,” Lisa Kmetz, executive vice president, retail and security officer, said in a statement. “Her expertise will be invaluable as we continue to expand our services to meet the needs of our community.”

Huxley has 22 years of experience in retail banking, including five years as a branch manager at Greenfield Cooperative Bank.

“I’m excited to represent the Cooperative Bank and help the consumers and businesses of our region utilize the full value of a banking relationship with a truly great local bank,” Huxley said in a statement.

PV Squared celebrates solar installation at food bank

CHICOPEE — PV Squared, a Greenfield-based, worker-owned solar energy cooperative, recently celebrated the activation of solar panels at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts’ new warehouse and resource, education and advocacy center at 25 Carew St. in Chicopee.

Designed to maximize sustainability and energy efficiency, the solar installation includes a rooftop solar array and solar canopy that provides shade and energy production over part of the parking lot. The system will significantly reduce the food bank’s carbon footprint.

“We are honored to partner with the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts on this impactful project,” Kate Carter, a worker-owner and member of the PV Squared management team, said in a statement. “As a company rooted in western Massachusetts, we’re committed to delivering renewable energy solutions that not only benefit the environment but also strengthen vital community organizations. By installing solar, the food bank is reducing [its] energy costs, allowing [the organization] to focus even more resources on [its] mission of feeding those in need. Solar projects like this are good for the planet and the bottom line.”

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Brittany Hathaway, a worker-owner and marketing specialist with PV Squared, stated, “This project was especially meaningful to us as a worker-owned cooperative. Knowing that our work is helping power another values-driven organization [that] provides vital resources to those in need makes it one of the most rewarding initiatives we’ve undertaken. Bringing solar energy to the food bank is more than just a technical achievement — it’s a way to contribute to their mission of community support and sustainability.”

The project was made possible through a congressionally directed Community Project Funding grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, with the support of U.S. Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey.

“This installation reflects what is possible when federal support and local expertise come together,” added Maya Fulford, a worker-owner and system designer with PV Squared, noting that a lot of people contributed to the installation of 1,269 modules totaling 615.465 kilowatt-hours of energy. “It’s inspiring to see solar energy powering an organization that does so much to uplift our region.”

Baker joins Cohn & Company Real Estate

GREENFIELD — Geoffrey Baker has joined Cohn & Company Real Estate as a licensed real estate professional.

Baker brings a combination of personal experience, professional dedication and a love for the Pioneer Valley to his work. A Pennsylvania native, Baker moved to western Massachusetts from California during the pandemic. Now a resident of Conway, he lives in a restored 1840s Greek Revival home. His home-buying journey taught him the value of having a knowledgeable and supportive real estate agent.

Before transitioning to real estate, Baker enjoyed a career as a professional violist, performing internationally and teaching music to children of all ages. He continues to appear in concerts in western Massachusetts through Conway Fine Arts, an organization he founded, and the Amherst Ballet Theatre Co. Baker also coordinates local economic development initiatives and volunteers with Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity.

“Geoffrey’s diverse background and deep appreciation for western Massachusetts make him an invaluable addition to our team,” Tim Grader, broker at Cohn & Company Real Estate, said in a statement. “His passion for helping people find their perfect home and his dedication to our local communities embody the values we hold dear.”